WHERE WE HELP ENGINEERS at all levels to achieve career success without suffering burnout.
WELCOME TO THE
HAPPY ENGINEER PODCAST
The Happy Engineer Podcast helps engineers at all levels to achieve career success without suffering burnout. Build your career, balance your life, and be happy!
Your host, Zach White, knows what it takes to be a successful engineer. Each week, the former engineering leader, now turned CEO and sought after Lifestyle Engineering Coach, will help you create an action plan to level up your career while designing a life you love.
Enjoy inspiring conversations with experts from all corners of industry and life, redefining work-life balance for a new world. Stop living below your potential, engineer! Learn how to overcome any career obstacle you face. Get off the road to burnout.
Crush comfort, create courage, and LET’S DO THIS!
BEHIND THE MIC
ABOUT YOUR HOST
Zach White is a widely regarded Coach known worldwide for changing the game in engineering career coaching. He has worked with engineers at all levels from dozens of top companies like Apple, Google, and General Motors to escape burnout and achieve breakthrough results. Zach is the founder and CEO of OACO, a fast growing company with unique and proven coaching programs exclusively for engineers. He also hosts The Happy Engineer Podcast, where listeners discover the steps to engineering success through expert interviews and Zach’s own transformational framework, the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint.
Zach understands the engineering journey first hand, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, and a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan. With over a decade of experience and top performance in a $20B organization, he is now a sought after Coach by engineering leaders around the world.
As a growing entrepreneur, Zach is also a Partner at PermaVentures, a private equity investment group and startup studio based in Southwest Michigan.
READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR ENGINEERING CAREER?
GRAB YOUR HEADPHONES AND TUNE IN!
199: Here’s Why Nobody Cares and Some People Win with Robert J. Hunt | The Accountability Guy
In this episode, we tackle the “A-word” that is rarely spoken and often ignored because frankly, it’s just not that fun.
Accountability.
You’ll meet Robert Hunt, “The Accountability Guy” and the co-author of the book “Nobody Cares…until you do.”
Having the life you really want is like a journey up a mountain. Robert calls this the Accountability Mountain in his book, and if you want to become the best version of yourself, you need to climb this mountain.
For over a decade, Robert has been mentoring and coaching CEO peer groups and executives with a single secret sauce of success… Accountability.
He helps leaders like you remove the things that keep you from being your best.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to live the life you really want and hold you to it!
198: Another Reason Why We Need a Better Goal
In this episode, I dive into the perplexing world of procrastination and the profound impact of not having a clear and compelling personal vision.
I share the story of Sam, a bright individual who, despite having the resources and time, struggles to advance his career due to a lack of clear goals. Through our conversation, it becomes evident that understanding what you truly want is crucial to overcoming stagnation and rediscovering your motivation.
We explore how defining your goals not only provides direction but also fuels your daily actions, making even challenging tasks feel worthwhile.
By the end of our talk, Sam finds new clarity, which ignites his passion and propels him towards meaningful action.
So press play and let’s chat about transforming your potential into actual success!
197: Broke Single Mom Turned Self-Made Latina Millionaire with Scarlette Joyce Rojas | Bestselling Author
In this episode, meet a broke single mom turned self-made Latina millionaire, Scarlette Joyce Rojas.
If you want to achieve financial freedom, overcome the subconscious beliefs that limit you, and discover the truth about how to use affirmations for personal growth… This conversation is a must-listen.
Scarlett has spoken on stages at JPMorgan, LPL Finance, and Invesco, along with being featured in news platforms such as New York Post, Bankrate, and AOL Finance leading to over 13 million online views inspired from her bestselling book, “31 Badass Money Mindset Affirmations.”
Today she shares her journey from a challenging childhood, to broke adulthood, to becoming a successful business owner. That success includes her health and happiness, on top of the millions $$$.
Scarlett’s story shows you the role of confidence and positive affirmations in attracting wealth, plus practical steps to transform your relationship with money.
So press play and let’s chat… your financial future depends on it!
196: Thanksgiving Challenge and Black Friday 2024 Bonus Announcement
In this episode, I share some of the most challenging and rewarding moments from my career as a coach, highlighted by a particularly tough week that ended with an uplifting message from a past client, Bruno, expressing profound gratitude.
After a grueling week filled with coaching sessions and missed opportunities with potential clients, I share a personal story that reignites my passion for coaching. The highlight comes from an unexpected message of gratitude from Bruno, a former podcast guest and coaching client, whose success story is both inspiring and a testament to the effectiveness of our coaching program.
This message arrived just as I needed it, reaffirming why I pour my heart into coaching. We’ll explore the deep emotional impact of coaching work, the power of gratitude, and how acknowledging this can transform both personal and professional lives.
As a special thank you to my listeners during this Thanksgiving season, I’m excited to offer an exclusive coaching package deal.
So press play and let’s chat about turning gratitude into a transformative tool in your life.
195: How to Lead Meetings that Don’t Suck
In this episode, I delve into a topic that resonates deeply with every engineering manager out there: meetings.
Often seen as a necessary evil, meetings can either be a productivity powerhouse or a profound time sink. Drawing from insights gathered from our blueprint program, I discuss how critical effective meetings are to an engineering manager’s career.
We explore how even a 5% improvement in meeting effectiveness can significantly amplify your impact over time.
So press play and let’s chat about mastering your meetings and magnifying your impact!
194: Communication Skills Masterclass LIVE with Brenden Kumarasamy | Founder of MasterTalk
In this episode, meet the best communication coach I’ve ever worked with, my good friend Brenden Kumarasamy.
Brenden is the Founder of MasterTalk, and a top communication coach to ambitious executives and entrepreneurs.
He has a huge vision, and to accomplish it built an incredible set of free tools and resources which is shared with his following of 30+ thousand aspiring communicators on YouTube. Brenden’s vision is providing free access to communication tools for everyone in the world.
We build on the basics from episode 093, where Brenden shares simple exercises you can begin practicing today to become a Top 1% Communicator in your industry.
This is the next level, a true Masterclass on communication skills and the powerful story of a leader who started without those skills.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to take the catalyst of your growth, communication skills, to the next level!
193: Here’s a Quick Way to Jumpstart a Stagnant Engineering Career
In this episode, I recount a pivotal moment in my career journey as a lead engineer at Whirlpool Corporation, where I sought to elevate my performance rating.
Through a simple yet profound question to my boss, I unearthed the key to exceptional results: cross-functional impact.
By collaborating with colleagues and leveraging technology, I devised a solution that streamlined communication between departments, ultimately earning me a top performance rating and a significant bonus—all within eight hours of work.
This narrative underscores the power of asking the right questions and embracing innovative approaches to stand out in one’s career.
Join me as I delve into the transformative impact of asking obvious yet potent questions and how it can propel you towards unparalleled success.
So press play and let’s chat about unlocking extraordinary results through the art of questioning.
192: The Secrets of Boosting Sustainable Productivity with Mark Struczewski | Mister Productivity
In this episode, meet Mister Productivity himself, Mark Struczewski.
If you want to finish the year strong and maximize your chances of promotion and top performance reviews, pay attention.
Mark is a Houston-based coach and host of The Mister Productivity™ Podcast. He brings over 1,300 episodes and 13 years of experience in productivity training to help leaders conquer overwhelm.
Drawing from simple examples like his daily running routine, he offers practical strategies to overcome distractions and achieve clarity in your life.
I also share one of my breakthroughs when it comes to productivity, the Productivity Impact Principle, only available here on the audio podcast in my solo debrief.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to move faster toward what you want to achieve with your life!
191: The Time Mindset – Beyond the Reach of Money
In this episode, I dive into a powerful shift in mindset around time, sparked by an incredible lesson I learned from a high-level mastermind event.
We often say time is more valuable than money, but do we truly live by that? I reflect on how we, especially as engineering leaders, prioritize money and overlook time, and how that mindset might be costing us in the long run.
I also share three essential principles about time, compounding growth, and why time freedom always precedes financial freedom.
This episode is all about taking action now to build the life and career you dream of—before it’s too late.
So press play and let’s chat… about how time is your most valuable asset and how to make it work for you!
190: Receive the Best Performance Review of Your Engineering Career with Curtis Mitchell
In this episode, get the one key that unlocked the best performance review of Curtis Mitchell’s career.
It’s not what you think it is, either.
Curtis Mitchell is a graduate of The Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint™️ coaching program for engineering managers. He has over 15 years of experience in data science and software engineering roles.
He was told his performance was below average, and unacceptable, by his leaders at various Silicon Valley startups.
When he finally landed a role at NASA’s Ames Research Center, a dream job for the 12-year old inside, he knew he had to turn that around.
That’s when he hired a coach, changed his mindset, took new actions… and received the best performance review of his career.
Curtis is currently working on AI and privacy engineering programs with the United States Census Bureau as an emerging technology fellow, and now lives in San Francisco, California.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to unlock your future growth with one simple strategy!
189: Accelerate Promotion by Avoiding a Common Phase 2 Trap
In this episode, I dive into the challenges of performance reviews and how to shift your approach to accelerate your next promotion.
I share a story about Daniel, an engineering leader who felt stuck in his career, frustrated by seeing his peers get promoted while he remained in the same role. The key insight? It’s not about constantly asking what gaps you need to close—it’s about demonstrating that you’re already performing at the next level.
By shifting the conversation with leadership from “what’s missing” to “what more can I contribute at the next level,” Daniel unlocked new growth in his career. I’ll walk you through how to make this same shift.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to elevate your promotion strategy!
188: Sabbatical Secrets – How to Take an Intentional Career Break with Laura Nguyen
In this episode, we look at the underestimated value of taking strategic career breaks with Laura Nguyen, author of “Career Break Compass: Navigating Your Path to a Balanced Life Through Intentional Time Off.”
Laura is an experienced marketing executive with an extensive background in data-driven marketing, digital marketing and communications for Fortune 500 companies. She is also a certified executive coach, helping mid-career, high-achieving leaders go from burned out to balanced.
Her book shares practical steps to plan and execute a fulfilling and career-enriching break, and how structured time off can lead to significant gains in productivity and personal well-being.
The challenge of maintaining career momentum and drive amidst chronic overwork and lack of work-life balance is a serious issue for many mid- and senior-level professionals. Career breaks are increasingly recognized as essential for long-term career success and personal happiness, yet many don’t pursue them for fear of professional repercussions.
So press play and let’s chat… Laura’s insights will offer strategies and practical advice for intentional career pauses that enhance both personal and professional growth!
187: How to Win at Office Politics and Keep your Integrity
In this episode, I dive into the often dreaded topic of office politics and why they are crucial to your career growth as an engineering leader.
I share real-life examples, like my conversation with Matthew, a senior manager who felt stuck and frustrated by the politics in his company. But here’s the catch — it’s not the politics that hold you back, it’s your mindset toward them.
Together, we’ll explore how to shift your perspective, step into the political arena with integrity, and build influence, one person at a time. Plus, I give you practical tips, including how asking the right questions can change everything.
So press play and let’s chat… It’s time to turn office politics into your secret weapon for career success.
186: The 8 Bad Moods that Block Happiness at Work with Matt O’Neill
In this episode, my guest Matt O’Neill teaches us that happiness is a choice, even when life gets tough.
Matt is is global leader in happiness education, teaching audiences how to live a life of ‘Conscious Happiness’ and now having impact over 100,000 people worldwide. His work includes the “Good Mood Revolution” book and podcast where he explains the importance of conquering negative thought patterns while embracing habits that lead to a happier life.
Matt’s teaching isn’t just theory, it’s tested in the real world too. Matt and his wife have 4 young children and they run two successful businesses with $8 Million in revenues and over 80 employees. Living by the happiness principles he teaches, his company is recognized as the #1 company to work for in South Carolina.
Matt’s unique approach to choosing good moods, even in the face of adversity, resonates deeply with each of us.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to unlock your potential for lasting happiness!
185: Facing Economic Uncertainty and Fear in Your Career
In this episode, I dive into a critical topic that’s affecting many engineering leaders today: facing uncertainty and fear.
Over the past few months, I’ve had countless conversations with professionals who are feeling the squeeze of an unpredictable economy, career challenges, and the pressure to succeed amidst growing doubts.
Whether it’s a looming layoff, a difficult job search, or navigating career pivots, the fear of the unknown is real. But here’s the truth: the greatest leaders are those who can create certainty in the face of uncertainty.
I’ll share actionable strategies to build confidence, shift your mindset, and turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
So press play and let’s chat…how do we find confidence when fear tries to take over?
184: Give Me 90 Days and I’ll Give You a Career Transformation with Bruno Yoshioka | Principal Manager at Microsoft
In this episode, you’ll see what career transformation looks like with Bruno Yoshioka, graduate of the Lifestyle Engineering Blueprint, my intensive coaching program for engineering leaders.
Bruno is currently a Principal Software Engineering Manager at Microsoft working on Microsoft Intune, a cloud-based endpoint management solution. He joined Microsoft out of college in 2014 after completing undergraduate degrees in computer science and music performance.
Throughout his 10+ years of working at Microsoft, he has experienced ups and downs from burnout to great success and elation, and found himself at one of those low points in late 2023.
That’s when he silenced the skeptic in his head, and joined a community of like-minded engineering leaders in coaching and training for career growth and lifestyle design.
He’ll share how he changed his mindset from fixed to growth, renewed his energy, created extreme clarity in his purpose and vision, and overall transformed the quality of his work life…
In just ninety days.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to get off the bleachers and into the arena of your life!
183: These 5 Common Thieves Are Stealing Your Productivity
In this episode, I dive into the five thieves of your productivity—those sneaky forces that derail your progress without you even realizing it.
From the lack of clear priorities to energy mismanagement, each thief subtly steals your efficiency, leaving you overwhelmed and frustrated.
I’ll walk you through each one, sharing practical insights on how to identify and combat these productivity killers.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re working hard but not getting anywhere, this episode is for you.
So press play and let’s chat… about taking back control of your productivity!
182: Take a Plunge Over the Growth Edge with Christopher Belcastro | Chief Technology Officer
In this episode, we talk with Christopher Belcastro, a high performing and focused CTO with global leadership experience managing large, diverse engineering projects & teams.
Christopher is one of us. He has over a dozen years of product development experience in power electronics for mission critical power protection applications.
If you want to be known for your ability to transform organizational performance, driving revenue and operating results for your company, then stick around because that’s what Christopher is known for.
But it didn’t come easy. After being told by HR when he was a new engineering manager that, “people don’t like working for you,” he had to make major adjustments or go down in flames.
Spoiler alert, he’s a successful CTO now, and he shares those lessons learned with you today.
A coach at heart, Christopher loves to give back to the global engineering community.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to take the plunge over your growth edge!
181: Laid Off? You Must Do This First When Looking for Work
In this episode, I tackle the tough topic of layoffs and what to do if you find yourself suddenly out of a job.
I share some hard truths about how layoffs can happen to even the most talented engineers and how it’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities.
You’ll learn why it’s crucial to avoid falling into the trap of endless resume polishing and instead focus on engaging your network and having real conversations that open doors.
I also offer practical advice on how to stay sharp and avoid the mindset pitfalls that can keep you stuck.
So press play and let’s chat… Let’s turn setbacks into comebacks!
180: The Busy Brain Cure to Find Focus and Tame Anxiety with Neurologist Dr. Romie Mushtaq
In this episode, meet Dr. Romie Mushtaq, author of the “The Busy Brain Cure” and creator of the BrainSHIFT protocol.
Her magic power is to help you find focus, tame anxiety, and sleep again.
Dr. Romie is a regularly featured medical expert analyst on Fox News in Orlando for Fox News and Good Day Orlando.
Every engineering leader I know will want to hear this conversation, including my personal breakthrough in the debrief.
Are you stuck in a success-stress cycle? Is chasing a dopamine high driving you toward procrastination? Find out today, and how to heal yourself naturally.
179: Beware the Lazy Engineer’s Way to Promotion
In this episode, I dive into the common trap many engineering managers fall into when they pursue career growth the lazy way: by working harder and longer hours.
We explore Rahul’s journey, a dedicated engineering manager who achieved success through hard work only to find himself overwhelmed and burned out. Through Rahul’s story, I highlight the importance of shifting from an individual contributor mindset to a leadership mindset, focusing on strategic delegation, and prioritizing tasks that matter most.
This episode is all about understanding the pitfalls of the “work harder” mentality and embracing a smarter, more sustainable approach to career advancement.
So press play and let’s chat about how to level up without burning out!
178: Without This Intention You Will Suffer the Certainty of Misery with Jeff Perry | Engineering Career Coach
In this episode, I chat with my good friend and fellow coach, Jeff Perry, about the power of intention.
In his new book, “The Intentional Engineer,” Jeff shares how to design a life and career with intention, how to shift your mindset, create clarity in what you want, and where it all fits in your zones of genius.
We talk about a three-letter word that embodies the growth mindset, moving beyond the golden rule, and the core statements that define (and can limit) our potential.
Jeff is a mechanical and software engineering leader turned leadership coach for engineers. His unique approach helps you create clarity on your goals, take ambitious action, make intentional career moves, and level-up fast.
So press play and let’s chat…it’s time to be intentional about your next career step!
177: Why Recruiters Do Not Find Jobs for People | Career Transition Coaching
In this episode, I tackle a common misconception in the career journey: the difference between a recruiter and a coach.
Many engineering leaders and managers come to our coaching organization, Oasis of Courage, seeking help without realizing they might need coaching instead of recruiting. I dive into the key differences between these two roles, explaining why recruiters find people for jobs, while coaches help you become the best candidate for your desired role.
I also discuss the importance of having a comprehensive job search strategy that includes but isn’t limited to recruiters.
You’ll hear real-life examples of how coaching can accelerate your career transition, boost your confidence, and help you avoid the pitfalls of desperation.
So press play and let’s chat about making your next career move with the right support system!
176: How Elite Communication Can Increase Your Income with Ty Hoesgen
In this episode, meet Ty Hoesgen. An elite communication coach, 2X best-selling author, and the Founder of Advanced Growth Institute, Ty helps professionals communicate with confidence, charisma, and clarity.
If you want more respect, more opportunities, and more money, communication is the key to unlock a new level.
Motivated by his struggles as a shy, awkward kid growing up on a farm, Ty has spent many years and thousands of hours researching, practicing, and experimenting in order to master the world of communication.
Determined to make others’ journeys less painful than his own, he dedicated his life to figuring out the success formula for communication skills.
Ty now uses this formula to help people change their lives as quickly as possible — introverts, extroverts, and people of all skill levels. He’s currently helped over 300 people radically improve their communication skills.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to go from low level implementation to high level communication!
175: Do You Make These 3 Mistakes in Mentorship?
In this episode, I share my journey of leveraging mentorship to pivot from engineering to business leadership. I discuss the critical importance of having world-class mentors and how their guidance opened doors I never thought possible.
You’ll learn about the three biggest mistakes mentees make: not having world-class mentors, not meeting with them regularly, and not asking for what you really want.
Through my own experiences and the lessons I’ve learned, I provide practical advice on avoiding these pitfalls and maximizing the benefits of mentorship.
So press play and let’s chat about how to elevate your career through powerful mentorship!
174: Here’s Why Being Busy Blocks Engineering Success with Dr. Andy Garrett
In this episode, meet the world’s leading authority on identity and resilience, Dr. Andy Garrett.
Andy holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and has invested his life’s work teaching organizations how to become Radically Resilient – to maximize your successes & limit losses!
We show how the world’s definition of success is part of the problem, and why everyone walks around feeling so busy all the time. Spoiler alert, doing more is not the answer to your next promotion.
If you have ever struggled with motivation, or bouncing back from adversity, then what Andy has researched about authenticity, resilience, and agility will be a game-changer for your career.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to change your story from post-traumatic stress, to post-traumatic growth!
173: Now You Can Make Hard Career Decisions Seem Simple
In this episode, I explore the critical importance of aligning your core values and vision before making significant career decisions.
Drawing from my experience working with an engineering leader named Ashley, who faced a pivotal career move, I illustrate how defining your values and vision ahead of time can transform decision-making from a stressful and uncertain ordeal into a confident and clear process.
You’ll learn why it’s essential to understand what truly matters and how to create a roadmap for your ideal life and career, emphasizing the importance of doing the inner work in advance to make informed, aligned decisions.
By the end of our discussion, you’ll have practical insights on how to prioritize your core values and articulate a compelling vision for your future.
So press play and let’s chat…about making career decisions that truly reflect who you are and where you want to go!
172: Master Product Management Like a Marketing Pro with Amberdeep Aurora
In this episode, meet my good friend Amberdeep Aurora, an accomplished Product Management leader who knows how to speak geek… because he started where you did, engineering.
Amberdeep is fluent in the languages of Consumer, Business and Technology. Besides being a utility patent holder, one of his products has won recognition for being Popular Science Magazine’s 100 Greatest Innovations of 2021.
We cover the key difference between outcomes and outputs, the 3 key trade offs to a product’s success, and how to make better decisions.
You may or may not see Product Management on your career ladder, but if you want to be a STEM professional capable of success and influence outside the walls of your cubicle, this conversation is critical.
Currently a Group Product Manager at Whirlpool Corp, a Global $20B World’s Most Admired Company (ranked by Fortune, 14 years in a row), Amberdeep leads a team of product managers in improving the shopping experience across the company’s North American Portfolio of six Direct-to-Consumer eCommerce websites.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to stop talking about solutions and start listening to our customer’s problems!
171: See How Easily You Can Increase Confidence at Work
In this episode, I explore the surprising link between failure and confidence, sharing insights from a recent coaching session with top-performing engineering managers.
We discuss how our greatest growth often comes from setbacks and how shifting our mindset from fearing failure to embracing learning can unlock true confidence.
Hear a powerful story from my client Becca, who transformed her confidence by breaking the confidence-competence loop.
Join me as we reframe success and failure, focusing instead on continuous growth and learning.
So press play and let’s chat about transforming your confidence through growth!
170: Are You Feeling Bored or Burned Out Lately? with Erika Rothenberger
In this episode, meet a woman who gave up the idea of being bored and focused on changing into the leader she dreamed of becoming, Erika Rothenberger.
Discover her secret to growth when you feel like you have nothing else to give. As you’ll see, she makes most of us look flat out lazy.
She currently manages a full-time career as Director of Performance Systems for a big national utility
contractor, Henkels & McCoy. She started two female empowerment networking groups in her community, and serves on multiple charity boards.
Erika is a mom, a published author, traveling keynote speaker, wellness entrepreneur, real estate investor, and oh yeah…host of the “Grit, Grace, & Glitz” podcast!
So press play and let’s chat… because you have the resilience inside of you for glitz without burnout!
169: The 4 Keys to Selling Your Ideas to Upper Management
In this episode, I dive into the crucial skills of selling ideas effectively within the engineering field, a skill often overlooked but immensely valuable for career advancement.
We often have brilliant ideas that could significantly benefit our companies, but without the right influence and sales tactics, these ideas can falter at the execution stage. I share insights from a recent coaching session where we addressed these challenges, focusing on increasing both the intrinsic and perceived value of your proposals to upper management.
Drawing from real-world examples and sales principles, I outline strategic approaches to enhance your persuasiveness and ensure your innovative ideas get the support they deserve.
So press play and let’s chat about transforming your technical skills into influential salesmanship!
168: What Every Engineer Ought to Know About Middle Management with Jason Gallaugher | VP of Engineering
In this episode, meet former Vice President of Engineering at VidYard and Principal Founder of ThreeNorth Consulting, Jason Gallaugher.
If you want to succeed in middle management, you must understand how to get leverage. You must change your approach. You must block the imposter voice and unsustainable work that leads to burnout.
Jason has spent over 20 years in engineering and technology, where his journey has taken him across scrappy startups, large companies and rocket ships.
His curiosity and energy have pushed him into roles ranging from software developer, product manager, P/L leader, all the way up to technology executive.
And he understands that being a manager can be the hardest job of them all.
Now, Jason is primarily a coach and advisor to executive teams. His energy comes from his love of people + technology, and using his skills to help technology organizations become High Leverage..
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time for YOU to master middle management!
167: You Don’t Have to Be John Maxwell to Be a Great Leader
In this episode, I dive deep into the practical aspects of leadership with a focus on behaviors over traits.
Everyone aspires to be a great leader, but what does that really entail beyond the buzzwords and theories?
I share a story from a recent conversation with Bill, a senior engineering manager, who’s striving to enhance his leadership skills, particularly around building trust and creating psychological safety within his team.
We discuss how easy it is to get caught up in the theoretical aspects of leadership, like the concepts found in leadership books, and overlook the necessity of actionable steps.
Throughout our discussion, I emphasize the importance of transforming leadership aspirations into specific, behavior-based actions that lead to real results.
Join me as we explore how to break down common leadership challenges into tangible actions that can immediately impact your team.
So press play and let’s chat about turning theory into action!
166: Get Rid of Toxic Work Culture Once and For All with Anese Cavanaugh | Award-Winning Author
In this episode, I welcome back award-winning author and creator of the IEP Method™️, Anese Cavanaugh.
Check out Episode 023: Change Your Life by Mastering Your Energy for our previous powerful interview.
IEP is about your Intention, your Energy, and your Presence.
It is the foundation for creating a Positive Energy Workplace™️ and Anese is passionate about helping you discover one simple truth:
Culture transformation CAN begin with you, and while the work itself is easy and rewarding, it’s not common.
The question you must ask yourself… is it worth it?
I’ll tell you from my experience, YES.
So press play and let’s chat… if you practice IEP, you’ll get rid of toxic culture once and for all!
165: WARNING – Your Memory is Worse Than You Think
In this episode, we dive deep into how our memories can sometimes be our own worst enemies, especially when it comes to personal growth and development.
I recount a recent humbling experience playing the game “Memory” with my nephew which sparked a profound realization about the limitations of my own memory, particularly how it’s crammed with so much information that it often hinders more than it helps.
This reflection led me to explore broader implications in terms of career advancement and personal development. I discuss the concept of the “I know” mindset, which can prevent us from taking action because we convince ourselves that we already know enough.
I share insights on how embracing community, coaching, and open-mindedness—rather than relying solely on what we know—can significantly propel us forward.
So press play and let’s chat about breaking free from the barriers of our memory!
164: Create the Exact Job You Want with Jonathan Boyer | Principal Mechanical Engineer
In this episode, meet my old colleague and good friend, Jonathan Boyer.
He is a Principal Engineer at Stryker, a leading Medical Equipment Manufacturing company whose products impact more than 130 million healthcare patients annually.
Jonathan had the same problem most engineers face, and in fact, you might say it’s not a problem.
There were some parts of his job he loved to do, and some things he had to do… and the “have to” category was bigger than the “love to.”
He decided it was time to change that reality. Jonathan set an intention that his next role would be SOLELY based on his passions and what he loves to do.
That role didn’t exist at Stryker.
It does now, and we’ll show you how.
So press play and let’s chat… because it’s time to create the job of your dreams!
163: The Secret of Escaping Stagnation at Work
In this episode, I dive deep into the concept of stagnation in your career journey.
Drawing from a recent coaching session with an engineering manager, Alex, who’s feeling stuck in his current role, we explore how the fear of dissatisfaction can hold us back from reaching our full potential. Despite having a good life and career on the surface, he realizes he’s not truly fulfilled.
I share insights on how to break free from this cycle by daring to be dissatisfied and embracing the courage to pursue something greater.
Plus, I offer a practical tool, the Pain Pleasure Matrix, to help you refocus your energy towards your desired future.
Don’t let fear hold you back any longer—join me as we embark on a journey toward growth and fulfillment.
So press play and let’s chat about embracing the courage to pursue greatness!
162: Change Your Life in 8 Steps with Dave Albin | Firewalk Captain for Tony Robbins
In this episode, meet the man who has led more people through the transformational experience of firewalking than anyone else on earth, Dave Albin.
Dave led the firewalk for personal development legend Tony Robbins at his Unleash the Power Within events for 20 years, before starting his own company and bringing this experience to corporate teams and most recently, veterans.
I personally experienced walking on fire in 2019 and it changed my life.
But this conversation is more than discovering the magic of firewalking (literally, it makes no sense how it’s possible). It’s a story of redemption, impact, and the boost we all need to get back out there and achieve our biggest dream.
Engineering leaders can change the world. The question is, will you?
So press play and let’s chat… the change begins today!
161: How Asking an Obvious Question Made Me $30K in One Day
In this episode, I recount a pivotal moment in my career journey as a lead engineer at Whirlpool Corporation, where I sought to elevate my performance rating.
Through a simple yet profound question to my boss, I unearthed the key to exceptional results: cross-functional impact.
By collaborating with colleagues and leveraging technology, I devised a solution that streamlined communication between departments, ultimately earning me a top performance rating and a significant bonus—all within eight hours of work.
This narrative underscores the power of asking the right questions and embracing innovative approaches to stand out in one’s career.
Join me as I delve into the transformative impact of asking obvious yet potent questions and how it can propel you towards unparalleled success.
So press play and let’s chat about unlocking extraordinary results through the art of questioning.
160: Build a Legacy You Can Be Proud Of with Shawn Dalcour & Keshia Robinson
In this episode, meet an amazing father-daughter duo, Shawn Dalcour and Keshia Robinson.
If you have ever felt stuck, stagnant, uncertain, or afraid to take that next step in your career, you must hear what Shawn and Keshia brought to our conversation today.
Shawn went from the projects of Chicago, growing up in a neighborhood where the life expectancy was only 30 years old… to arguably the most successful project leader I’ve had on this podcast!
He earned an engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and built his engineering career on elite teams at places like IBM, Oracle, Adobe, and Verizon, where he is currently responsible for $1.3 billion in revenue as Global Technology Alliance Manager, Partner Business Development & Innovation Leader.
His daughter Keshia has her own amazing journey, currently serving as Director of Operations for the National Society of Black Engineers. She has witnessed first hand the power of her father going from tragedy to triumph, and is giving back to the community of engineering leaders as part of that legacy.
So press play and let’s chat…because nothing was impossible for Shawn, and nothing is impossible for you!
159: Who Else Wants More Energy at Work?
Are you ready to unlock your full potential by prioritizing health and fitness?
In this episode, I share a surprising revelation from my time at the gym that transformed my perspective on career success. From casual encounters with gym buddies to discovering they were top executives, I realized a common thread: the correlation between physical fitness and professional achievement.
I delve into why a strong body is crucial for a strong mind and how prioritizing health can elevate performance in all areas of life.
Join me as I challenge engineering leaders to become subject matter experts not only in their technical fields but also in sleep, movement, and nutrition. Discover simple yet powerful ways to optimize energy levels and unlock your full potential.
So press play and let’s chat about maximizing performance through holistic well-being.
158: How to Minimize Regret and Maximize Success with Omar Halabieh | Tech Director at Amazon Payment Services
In this episode, meet a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience on some of the most demanding teams and technologies in the world, Omar Halabieh.
If you want to make it Director level and beyond, this episode is essential. Omar is passionate about developing people and building high performing organizations.
Omar is currently Director of Technology at Amazon Payment Services, based in Dubai, UAE. It was a few weeks before Christmas when we recorded this one, and only God knows how many payments were being processed by Amazon.
Prior to this, he led technology teams within Amazon’s Supply Chain Optimization Technologies organization based in Seattle. These engineering teams revolutionized what we consider “normal” in supply chain technology today.
Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his active and inquisitive 4-year old son. You can have that time and balance with your family too.
Omar looked fear in the face many times… and discovered that regret minimization was more important than playing it safe. Discover the frameworks he used to make huge decisions and drive his success without regret.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to make courageous decisions that minimize regret and maximize success!
157: Learn to Say More with Less Words | Executive Communication
In this episode, I reflect on a recent coaching session with an engineering leader named David, who struggled to articulate his career challenges concisely.
I share how, despite his impressive background, David’s long-winded communication hindered his progress. From experiences like this, I’ve learned the critical importance of clear and concise communication in career advancement.
I delve into how engineers, like myself, often fall into the trap of verbosity, but mastering concise communication is essential for success. Whether it’s in emails or conversations, brevity saves time and fosters clarity. By adopting this habit, engineers can project authority, autonomy, and decisiveness, crucial qualities for effective leadership.
Join me as I discuss the power of concise communication and its transformative impact on career growth.
So press play and let’s chat about leveling up your communication game!
156: Why Some Engineers Should Definitely Start a Consulting Business with Jay Aigner
In this episode, you’ll get to meet Jay Aigner. He is a consulting evangelist.
You may relate with Jay, who had his first kid at age 19, in college, 1000 miles from home. He graduated, got a job in his dream industry and worked the 9-5 grind for years.
Eventually a new challenge presented itself … get his wife out of working as an overnight long-term pediatric nurse.
What is your challenge? Why is your current life no longer acceptable? Most importantly, what’s the solution?
For Jay, it was consulting.
Fast-forward a few years later, he grew JDAQA, his company, from a one man software testing consultancy based on his 9-5 experience to a 7-figure testing agency powerhouse with 60+ employees. Jay is a father of 5, amateur astrophotographer, student pilot, hockey player, and podcast host as well.
His unique 5 for 5 morning routine is his foundation for crushing results, and we cover that and more in this powerful conversation.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s time to get off the fence and get clear on your consulting business!
155: Get Rid of Sleazy Networking Once and For All
In this episode, I dive into the misconceptions and pitfalls surrounding networking in the professional world.
Join me as I unpack the flawed mindset behind traditional networking strategies and propose a paradigm shift towards authentic connection and giving without expectation.
Discover why leading with generosity and genuine intent can not only transform your networking experiences but also propel your career forward with fulfillment and purpose.
So press play and let’s chat about redefining networking for success without the sleaze.
154: Here is a Method to Make Career Fulfillment a GAME with Jay Abbasi
In this episode, we reconnect with CEO and Career Consultant, Jay Abbasi.
If your career lacks fulfillment, impact, or balance… he explains that you’re probably playing the wrong game.
What Jay learned as a top trainer at Tesla, where he was responsible for helping the most talented leaders in the EV industry rise to an even higher level, is that people fail to reach their full potential at work because stress, anxiety, or burnout keep them stuck.
He developed a method proven across hundreds of leaders in dozens of industries that turns career building into a GAME, four steps to a fulfilling, impactful, and balanced career.
Now CEO of his own career consulting company, Jay is helping leaders like you to be resilient, perform better, lead better, and work better with others.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s GAME time!
153: How to Master the Calendar and Get More Done
In this episode, we discuss a common struggle we engineers face: mastering our calendars.
Inspired by an email from a listener named Will, who felt overwhelmed and struggled to get things done, we explore the crucial skill of calendar management.
I share five actionable tips, from guarding your best hours to winning the morning, to help you take control of your time. These tips are just the tip of the iceberg – there are seven more waiting for you in the downloadable PDF scorecard.
Remember, you have all the time there is, and by implementing these strategies, you can shift from feeling overwhelmed to experiencing joy and flow.
So press play and let’s chat about reclaiming your calendar and mastering your time.
152: Biggest Lie Blocking Happiness is Everywhere with Eric Nehrlich | Chief of Staff @ Google
In this episode, you’ll meet Eric Nehrlich. He used to be miserable.
An achiever who always exceeded expectations, he landed a dream job at Google. But a couple years later he was working 8am to midnight every day, including most weekends, drowning in emails and meetings.
Eric felt completely stuck, with no idea how his life was ever going to change.
Today, his work is meaningful and inspiring, and he is happy. Eric spends quality time with his family, while still having time for his own pursuits.
What changed?
He realized he had a choice.
Now an Executive Coach to top technology leaders at companies like X (Twitter), Amazon, and of course Google, Eric authored the book, “You Have a Choice: Beyond Hard Work to Meaningful Impact”, to help you realize the same thing.
So press play and let’s chat… if you want to be happy and successful in your career, the choice is yours.
151: Forget Work-Life Balance If You Want to Be Happy | Master the Wheel of Life
In this episode, we dive into the crucial concept of whole life balance, challenging the traditional notion of work-life balance.
The centerpiece of this episode is the Wheel of Life, a powerful tool for assessing satisfaction in eight key areas, including body, finances, relationships, mindset, and vocation. I guide you through the process of scoring each domain and emphasize the importance of taking small, specific actions to improve each area gradually.
The episode concludes with an actionable plan to prioritize and address the areas that need attention the most. Don’t miss the chance to grab the accompanying workbook and embark on your journey toward whole life balance.
So press play and let’s chat about transforming your life one wheel at a time.
150: Victory Over Imposter Syndrome and Burnout with Jimmy Burroughes
In this episode, meet Jimmy Burroughes, a former British Military Officer turned international coach and brilliant author.
Jimmy shares his mission to “Beat Burnout – Ignite Performance” in his playbook for building high-performance team cultures. He helps organizations all over the planet achieve 10x results without burning out.
If you are hungry for bigger and faster results, but not sure how to get there without burning the candle on both ends, this conversation is for you.
Having lived and worked in over 65 countries, Jimmy’s approach to leadership development doesn’t include fancy jargon or complex formulas. He believes in simple, practical solutions that get results.
So press play and let’s chat… let’s beat burnout before it starts.
149: Promotion Playbook Yearly Rhythm | My Signature System to Align and Accelerate Results in 2024
In this episode, we kick off the year 2024 addressing our yearly playbook rhythm, the signature system guiding our clients to achieve audacious goals in their careers and lives. I’m thrilled to share the exact process, breaking down principles and ideas into actionable steps for you to implement. To accompany this conversation, there’s a downloadable PDF workbook, providing in-depth insights and tactics.
This is not a passive listen; it’s a call to intentional action and goal setting. The promotion playbook becomes vital for engineering leaders seeking results, promotions, and a fulfilling lifestyle.
I introduce the three essential plays: deciding goals, reconnecting them to purpose, and executing the ultimate results cycle. This system, when executed consistently, transforms accumulated knowledge into kinetic energy, fostering quicker achievement of big goals.
So press play and let’s make 2024 your most successful year yet!
148: Vision Plus Emotion Equals Creation with Steve Gamlin
In this episode, meet Steve Gamlin, a man who blew up his life at age 35, then rose from the ashes to become a force for motivation and personal growth.
Remember Lieutenant Dan from the movie Forrest Gump, shouting at God in the storm? Have you ever been so upset with your life you feel like giving up?
Steve did, and you’ll hear about his golfing in a lightning storm moment to prove it.
There is one reason I had to have him on the podcast. Steve has become a master of VISION. Vision boards, in particular… and without vision, you perish.
Drawing from a decade in the radio industry, 7 years of stand-up comedy and a 30+ year personal development journey, Steve teaches us to ‘SEE’ our desired outcomes, understand our ‘WHY’…then build Action Plans to achieve them.
So press play and let’s chat… your future depends on it.
147: Blissful Balance and Happy Hustle 2.0 with Cary Jack
In this episode, we reconnect with a true renaissance man, Cary Jack.
I spent five days in the back-country wilderness with Cary in Montana on one of his Epic Mastermind Adventures and can tell you, he has cracked the code on Blissful Balance.
Cary played semi-pro soccer in Barcelona, studied kung fu and tai chi from a world-renowned master, is an avid outdoorsman and horse-loving cowboy currently living in Montana, and has significant achievements in biohacking, modeling, acting, and oh yeah… entrepreneurship.
He appeared on the podcast in episode 034 where we covered his secret to Blissful Balance. I highly recommend you jump back and check it out as well..
Now almost two years later, Cary is a new dad and has been challenged in new ways to find balance. Through this experience, and having coached hundreds of entrepreneurs who know what it means to be busy… Cary has taken his signature work and book, “The Happy Hustle” to a whole new level.
So press play and let’s chat… because we never stop finding balance as life changes and grows!
146: Practical Optimism Leads to A+ Careers with Ken Schmitt | CEO at TurningPoint Executive Search | Author
In this episode, Founder and CEO at Turning Point Executive Search and “The Practical Optimist” author, Ken Schmitt, is here to help you land your next level of success at work.
For 26 years Ken has been searching for the best talent on the planet, and realized the importance of balance between practical realism and joyful optimism. He knows how A-players land A+ opportunities.
If you want to play at the top of your game, you’ll want to know how Ken uses an external ecosystem to maintain balance, and the one question to never ask when networking.
Ken also shares where 80% of the best opportunities are found today.
Now he supports professionals in channeling both the logical and the visionary pieces of successful leadership. In addition to moderating domestic and global leadership panels, he is the Founder of the Sales & Marketing Leadership Alliance where he spent 11 years interviewing CEOs, business leaders and entrepreneurs about the best way to make an impact in the modern business world.
So press play and let’s chat… I’m optimistic about this episode changing your career!
145: Secret Guide to Communicating with Business Teams with Chris Fenning | Award-Winning Author of The First Minute
In this episode, former aerospace engineering leader Chris Fenning makes it easier for us to communicate at work.
His simple methods help experts like you talk to non-experts on cross functional teams like marketing and sales. We also discuss how engineering teams can improve communication to executives, and much more.
If you want to grow your career, this episode is mandatory learning. Your impact and promotability will be limited by your ability to influence outside engineering department walls. Communication is the key.
Chris’s consulting and practical approach is used in organizations ranging from Google to NATO, and because of their broad appeal for technical leadership, have appeared in the Harvard Business Review.
He is also the author of multiple award-winning books that have been translated into 15 languages, including my personal favorite, “The First Minute: How to start conversations that get results.”
So press play and let’s chat… about how to chat with anybody and get results!
144: Why Not All Readers are Leaders | 3 Big Mistakes Engineers Make in the Habit of Reading Books
In this episode, I explore three mistakes in my reading journey, from juggling too many books to setting arbitrary yearly reading goals.
I advocate for a shift towards intentional reading, focusing on quality over quantity and emphasizing the importance of applying knowledge. I discuss the pitfall of passive action and encourage listeners to prioritize real-life implementation.
As a bonus, I share a curated list of nearly 100 influential books from my personal library.
So, press play and let’s chat about transforming your reading habits for meaningful personal and professional growth.
143: How to Quickly Operate and Succeed at Work with Dr. Robert Santer | Navigating an Engineering Organization
In this episode, skip ahead 40 years of experience and learn from someone else’s mistakes what it takes to succeed at work with Dr. Robert “Bob” Santer.
Bob knows that transitioning new engineers into professionals who can blend in and contribute to the technical organization is, at best, doubtful.
Worse still, you and I both know that even a decade later as engineering managers, we still have huge gaps in what it takes to succeed outside our technical acumen!
Bob has his PhD in Engineering from the University of Michigan, GO BLUE! He has over 40 years of domestic and international industry experience in the aerospace and automotive fields as an engineering management professional, including Boeing and the Ford Motor Company.
If you love to learn, and you want to succeed as an engineering leader, then you’ll love Bob’s rigorous organizational framework to operate from.
He delivers guidance using a dual approach of academic insight and decades of hands-on professional experience.
So press play and let’s chat… it’s amazing how fast you can go when you navigate with the right compass!
142: Special Thanks and Special Announcement You Don’t Want to Miss
In this episode, meet the VP of Engineering at Freeosk, Megan Ford.
Now a female engineering executive, her career path was a winding road and ups, downs and lots of challenges. But she held on to a core belief that you must keep an open mind, ask lots of questions, and be willing to make decisions.
Megan shares how self doubt can be really loud when facing a big transition, and you suddenly feel like you have to learn everything all over again. You might also be surprised to hear that Megan, a top performer, was let go.
That was something she never expected to face in her career. But it happens and it is 1000% ok.
We dig into the reality of career building: Not every job, role, boss, is going to be a good fit. Reflect and move on.
And if you’re a woman in engineering, this conversation will be doubly encouraging.
Megan loves the outdoors as everything is better outside, and coffee, because everything is better with coffee also.
So press play and let’s chat… the path for your career growth begins now!
141: Gratitude Engineering | Scientific and Practical Guide to Growth through Gratitude
In this special episode of The Happy Engineer Podcast, we’re celebrating Thanksgiving by expressing our gratitude.
From the incredible guests who have shared their wisdom to the over 100,000 downloads of this podcast, we are truly grateful. But most importantly, we want to thank you, our amazing listeners, for investing your precious time with us.
As we continue to bring you valuable content to accelerate your career growth, we invite you to join us on this journey towards creating the career and life of your dreams.
And if you’re ready to take the next step, we have an exciting bonus for you. Check the show notes for details. Thank you, and we’ll see you next week on The Happy Engineer Podcast.
140: Grow to VP – Female Executive Journey to the Top with Megan Ford | Vice President of Engineering at Freeosk
In this episode, meet the VP of Engineering at Freeosk, Megan Ford.
Now a female engineering executive, her career path was a winding road and ups, downs and lots of challenges. But she held on to a core belief that you must keep an open mind, ask lots of questions, and be willing to make decisions.
Megan shares how self doubt can be really loud when facing a big transition, and you suddenly feel like you have to learn everything all over again. You might also be surprised to hear that Megan, a top performer, was let go.
That was something she never expected to face in her career. But it happens and it is 1000% ok.
We dig into the reality of career building: Not every job, role, boss, is going to be a good fit. Reflect and move on.
And if you’re a woman in engineering, this conversation will be doubly encouraging.
Megan loves the outdoors as everything is better outside, and coffee, because everything is better with coffee also.
So press play and let’s chat… the path for your career growth begins now!
